HISTORIC PRESS RELEASE : Local authority guidance on euro preparations [June 2003]

The press release issued by HM Treasury on 17 June 2003.

HM Treasury and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in conjunction with the Local Government Association have today issued guidance for local authorities on euro preparations. The guidance offers advice on high-level business and communications issues that local authorities need to consider in their preparations for the euro.

Chancellor Gordon Brown said;

“As major service providers, community leaders, employers and key communicators to citizens, local authorities would have a critical role to play during any changeover to the euro. The publication of this guidance and the third outline National Changeover Plan will lead to a period of information and discussion throughout the country. As part of wider public sector preparations, it is now important that local authorities consult local communities and develop their own changeover plans.”

The Deputy Prime Minister added;

“I welcome the issue of guidance to local authorities on euro preparations. This, along with the appointment of Sir Jeremy Beecham, Chair of the LGA, to the Chancellor’s Standing Committee on Euro Preparations, highlights the important role local government would play during any changeover and reaffirms our commitment to work in partnership with and consult local government on preparations for the euro.”